SOMERSET folk looking to learn a new skill this New Year can attend a patchwork sewing bee at a garden centre in the county this month.

The Craft Centre at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre at Monkton Heath-field near Taunton is hosting a patchwork sewing bee on Saturday, January 31, from 10am until 1pm.

Julia Langley, Craft Centre Advisor at the independent family-run garden centre, explained: “The New Year is the perfect time to learn a new skill and our patchwork sewing bee is ideal for those wanting to learn the art of patchwork sewing.

“The group is great for beginners as we’ll be teaching people the techniques to get them started with paper piecing and hand sewing as well as quilting techniques and appliqué.

Anyone who comes along will need to bring a sewing kit with them but we will be able to provide sewing machines as well as our expert knowledge.

“We also have a huge selection of fabrics and ribbons, which can be purchased at an additional cost as well as books for people to look at for inspiration for their projects.”

Patchwork sewing involves sewing together different pieces of fabric into a larger design. Repeat patterns can be built up with different fabric shapes and colours.

The cost of the class will be £12 per person and tea or coffee is included.

People can call the garden centre to book a place or email the Craft Centre at crafts@monktonelm.co.uk.

Julia added: “We hope lots of people come along to learn a new skill.

People are welcome to bring projects along that they’re currently working on or we can help individuals choose something to work on.”

The patchwork sewing bee will take place on Saturday, January 31 from 10am until 1pm.

To find out more details, visit Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton.